The Infant Mind: Sophomore Seminar

What goes on inside the mind of an infant? In this course we will explore a variety of hot topics concerning how babies experience the world around them. We will cover topics such as temperament (Do babies get mad?), language and communication (How do infants learn words and what if a baby is exposed to more than one language?), the effects of poverty on the developing brain (Does it matter?), social categories and relationships (Do babies notice differences across people?), and morality (Do babies have a sense of justice?). We will discuss how to put child development research into practice, by considering research relevant to policies concerning vaccination, early childhood education, and whether screen time is okay for babies. We will also look at child care/parenting practices across different cultures. If you are curious about the developing mind, human nature, or considering a career in a field that involves working children (e.g., education, medicine, public policy) this course is for you. This seminar is open to students from all majors. Students must register for the lecture plus one lab section (afternoon times may have some flexibility), which will involve community-engaged interactions with infants. Enrollment restricted to 20 sophomores or permission of instructor.
Course Attributes: EN S; BU BA; AS SSC

The Infant Mind: Sophomore Seminar

PSYCHOLOGICAL & BRAIN SCIENCES 219

Section 01

Section A

Section B

Section C

Section D

Section E

Section G